HARTFORD — Officials at Central Connecticut State University are defending the police and school response to Monday reports of a masked man with a gun and sword.

Law enforcement swarmed the New Britain campus with SWAT teams and police dogs, and buildings were locked down for three hours. It turned out the man was a student dressed in an apparent Halloween costume that included a real sword and BB handgun.

University President Jack Miller said Tuesday that all potential threats must be taken seriously and officials need to respond to worst-case scenarios.

Classes resumed Tuesday and counseling was offered.

The student, 21-year-old David Kyem of Newington, was charged with breach of peace and posted bail Monday. He didn't return a phone message Tuesday, and it wasn't clear if he has a lawyer.